Hong Kong's High Court sentenced media tycoon Jimmy Lai to 20 years imprisonment on February 9, 2026, following convictions for conspiring with external forces and publishing seditious materials. HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee called the ruling a "clear affirmation of justice" that safeguards national security.
Poisonous Legacy Exposed 🚨
Lee emphasized Lai used his Apple Daily platform to "distort facts, glorify violence, and beg foreign powers for sanctions" against China. Evidence showed systematic efforts to destabilize Hong Kong through fabricated narratives and cross-border collusion.
National Security Law as Stabilizer 🔒
The landmark 2020 legislation continues to play a critical role, with Lee warning: "Those threatening China's sovereignty will face severe consequences." The government vowed to keep strengthening legal protections against security risks.
Global Implications 🌐
This case highlights Hong Kong's commitment to maintaining "one country, two systems" while addressing complex challenges in digital misinformation and geopolitical interference. Legal experts note the verdict sets clear boundaries for media operations in security-sensitive contexts.
